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Crispy Crab Cake Egg Rolls – The Ultimate Seafood Appetizer

Upgrade your appetizer game with these golden, crispy Crab Cake Egg Rolls! Packed with savory crab meat, creamy filling, and fried to perfection, they’re a delicious fusion of flavors. Perfect for parties, seafood lovers, or when you’re craving something bold and indulgent.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizer, Party Food, Snack
Cuisine American, Asian-fusion, Seafood
Servings 12 egg rolls (about 6 servings as an appetizer)
Calories 230 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Frying pan or deep fryer
  • Oil thermometer
  • Baking sheet & wire rack (for draining)
  • Pastry brush (for sealing wrappers)
  • Air fryer (optional, for lighter version)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb lump crab meat (fresh or pasteurized, drained)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 Tbsp Old Bay seasoning (or to taste)
  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice + zest of ½ lemon
  • 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 green onions, finely sliced
  • 12 egg roll wrappers
  • 1 egg (beaten, for sealing)
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

Optional Dipping Sauces:

  • Spicy aioli (mayo + sriracha + garlic)
  • Remoulade
  • Sweet chili sauce

Instructions
 

Prepare Crab Filling

  • In a large bowl, gently mix crab meat, mayo, egg, breadcrumbs, mustard, Old Bay, lemon juice/zest, parsley, and green onions. Do not overmix — keep some crab chunks intact.

Assemble Egg Rolls

  • Place one wrapper on a flat surface, with a corner facing you.
  • Spoon 2–3 Tbsp of crab mixture onto the lower third.
  • Fold the bottom corner over filling, tuck sides in, and roll tightly.
  • Seal edge with beaten egg. Repeat with remaining wrappers.

Fry Until Golden

  • Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
  • Fry 2–3 rolls at a time for 3–4 minutes, turning until golden brown.
  • Drain on wire rack or paper towels.

Serve & Enjoy

  • Plate hot with your choice of dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead: You can assemble rolls a few hours ahead and refrigerate, covered. Fry just before serving.
  • Baking Option: Brush with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Air Fryer Method: Spray rolls with cooking spray and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.
  • Variations: Try adding diced red peppers, corn, or cheese for extra flavor. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and wrappers for a GF version.
  • Storage: Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in air fryer/oven for best crispiness.
Keyword Crab cake egg rolls, crab egg rolls recipe, crispy seafood rolls, fried seafood bites, fusion appetizers, Maryland crab cakes,, party snacks